Makeup Artist
Salary

The average wage for a Makeup Artist is $16.01 per hour. Most people with this job move on to other positions after 20 years in this career. Pay for this job rises steadily for more experienced workers, but goes down noticeably for employees with more than 20 years' experience.

XTotal Pay combines base annual salary or hourly wage, bonuses, profit sharing, tips, commissions, overtime pay and other forms of cash earnings, as applicable for this job. It does not include equity (stock) compensation, cash value of retirement benefits, or the value of other non-cash benefits (e.g. healthcare).

XTotal Pay combines base annual salary or hourly wage, bonuses, profit sharing, tips, commissions, overtime pay and other forms of cash earnings, as applicable for this job. It does not include equity (stock) compensation, cash value of retirement benefits, or the value of other non-cash benefits (e.g. healthcare).

Job Description for Makeup Artist

Makeup artists use cosmetic products to enhance natural beauty and create attractive looks that meet clients' needs. They work in a number of settings, such as demonstrations at makeup counters and trade shows, high-fashion makeup for runway models, theatrical makeup for film and stage productions, and movie special-effects makeup design. Depending on the makeup artist's niche, they may based in one location (such as a salon or makeup counter) or travel regularly to different locations. Makeup artists may work as freelance professionals or for an employer. Examples of freelance makeup artists' jobs might include a bride's makeup for weddings, actors' makeup for stage production, and models' makeup for fashion photographers print and catalog work. Makeup artists with a single employer might work at a specific salon or makeup counter, among other locations. These professionals may continually expand their clientele and specializations, creating opportunities for career advancement. Makeup artists must be able to adapt to clients' specific needs, such as if they have an allergic reaction to a certain cosmetic or if certain products aren't translating to film or photographing well.

Makeup artists generally attend cosmetology schools to attain a relevant degree, although certain states may require an official licenses or degree to practice this profession as well. Makeup artists may also take ongoing classes to hone skills, learn about new products, gain knowledge in new techniques, and explore new skills. These professionals must be flexible and able to quickly think of creative solutions to problems; they should also have excellent customer service skills.

Makeup Artist Tasks

Select makeup shades and products for individuals.

Sell makeup and cleansing products, and provide information and advice on cosmetic application.